Five Years and Counting!

We are excited to announce that the 2026 Solar Power World Top Solar Contractors List has been released, and Citadel has placed among the leading solar installers in California and in the U.S. for the fifth year in a row. This year, we retained our three top-three positions:

• #3 Solar Installer in the Nation
• #2 Residential Solar Installer in California
• #1 Residential & Commercial Installer in California

We also continue to climb in the verified national standing of U.S. solar contractors to #68, up from #88 last year and #98 in 2024.

How the Rankings Work

Solar Power World ranks contractors by the amount of DC kilowatts they installed in the previous year. The 2026 rankings are based on each company’s 2025 volume. Participating companies are required to submit documented project information, which Solar Power World verifies using state and utility records.

The listings distinguish between residential, commercial, utility, and other solar markets, as well as different industry segments such as installers, EPCs, developers, and subcontractors.

Why Citadel’s Ranking Is Notable

It’s important to put the rankings in context, because comparing solar companies strictly by kilowatts installed doesn’t tell the entire story. A company that completes a small number of very large commercial or utility-scale projects can accumulate capacity much faster than a company serving thousands of residential customers.

That distinction is especially relevant to Citadel, which does a significant amount of work on new homes. California’s current Energy Code requires solar photovoltaic systems on newly constructed single-family homes, subject to certain exceptions. These new-home systems are typically smaller than systems installed on existing homes, which means Citadel can complete a high volume of new-home solar work without adding as many total kilowatts as companies focused on larger residential or commercial systems.

Citadel also serves a broad mix of residential and commercial customers, from new-home builders and individual homeowners to larger commercial properties. Put all of that together, and Citadel’s ranking reflects substantial installation volume across a broad customer base, not just a small number of very large projects.

Decades of Experience, Five Years of Recognition

Experience that Spans Market Changes

We have been serving California customers since 1991 and installing solar since 1999. We have decades of experience in an industry that has changed dramatically. Five consecutive years on Solar Power World's Top Solar Contractors List provides a recent measure of that long-standing experience and illustrates that Citadel continues to perform at a high level as the solar market evolves.

Adapting to a Changing Solar Market

Over the past few decades, California’s solar industry has undergone major changes in incentives, utility policies, financing, and technology. As those changes have affected how solar systems are designed, financed, and installed, Citadel has adapted its offerings and approach. Our experience, which spans roofing, solar, and battery storage, allows the company to handle projects that involve multiple component types and changing customer needs. 

Built to Support Customers for the Long Term

Our focus extends beyond completing the initial project. We take pride in a robust service and maintenance operation that allows us to continue supporting customers after their systems are in place. A lasting presence is especially meaningful in the solar industry because homeowners and businesses may need service, repairs, and system support years after their solar system is installed.

What the Rating Means for Customers

So, what does a ranking like this mean for you, the customer? It gives customers one additional measure of an installer’s demonstrated experience, alongside factors such as equipment, warranties, financing, reviews, and service capabilities. To be perfectly honest, the solar installation industry has a reputation for here-today, gone-tomorrow companies. You’re making an investment into a solar installation that will be around for 25 years or more, so it makes a lot of sense to hire an established company with a proven track record of completing projects and remaining available for service and support for years to come. 

Another thing to keep in mind is our “one customer at a time” policy. Citadel’s substantial installation volume does not mean customers become a number, particularly when supported by established teams and service processes. This approach benefits commercial partners, builders, developers, and customers with different needs and requirements.

Looking Ahead

We don’t look at our recognition on the 2026 Solar Power World Top Solar Contractors List as a finish line; it’s another important milestone. Our focus is and will remain on installation, service, and long-term relationships, regardless of volume. We’re grateful to the customers, employees, and partners who have helped make this recognition possible, and we’re proud to carry that trust forward.

Whether you’re planning solar for a new home, an existing property, or a commercial development, Citadel Roofing & Solar brings decades of experience to every project. Contact our team to discuss your solar needs and explore your options.